Swimming in Lake Lanier

Beaches and Designated Swim Areas

The Corps operates 20 designated swim areas around the 38,000 acres of Lake Lanier. You’ll find imported white sanded beaches at some of these, and each has its own features. Click on the links to find out more information about each park and swim area.

In addition to the Corps swim areas, there’s also a beautiful white-sand beach and designated swim area (with a stunning view) at Don Carter State Park.

All swim areas are “swim at your own risk”, and there are no lifeguards on duty. Swimmers are encouraged to swim at designated swim areas only.

Georgia state parks with designated swim areas include:

Swimming Options at Lanier Islands

Lanier Islands

Lanier World Beach and Water Park

Another option and family favorite is LanierWorld at Lanier Islands in Buford. At the Family Fun Park, enjoy Wild Waves, the South’s largest wave pool, as well as Raging River, carnival rides and TAD’S Lakeside Grille. A short walk through the tunnel takes you from the Family Fun Park to Big Beach, home of the largest collection of rides, slides and dining options at LanierWorld. Across the sand and over the Boardwalk, lies Sunset Cove, THE spot on Lake Lanier for music, entertainment, dining & nightlife.

Shoal Creek Campground

Swimming Options off the Lake

Francis Meadows Aquatic Center in Gainesville has an outdoor water park kids love. The amenities include: a splash pad, a zero-depth entry pool with water troughs, a kid pool with aquatic slide and water squirters, a swirl pool and current pool, as well as 3-story high water slides. There’s also an indoor 10-lane competition pool and an indoor 4-lane instructional pool. There is a snack bar onsite (no outside food allowed). For a full-listing of prices, hours and amenities, you can visit their website or give them a call at the number below.